Both women naturally broke away from the kiss to look at each other. Bettes lips were slightly parted to accompany her now rapid breathing. Tina just smiled as she watched the speechless woman in front of her trying to catch her breath.

Not got a reply to that one, Ms Porter? Tina teased.

Only this

Bette leant forward and caught Tinas mouth with her own. The kiss lingered on their lips as Bette intertwined her fingers with Tinas.

I want you T she breathed.

Tina looked down and a single tear rolled down her cheek. Bette squeezed her hand in concern.

Have I done something wrong?

Tina looked up no, its not that its justI want you too, Bette. But Im scared. Ive never been with a woman before

Im not going to rush you, T. I would wait forever for you

Tinas tears began to flow freely as Bette took her in her arms and held her. She stroked her back whilst brushing the hair from her face and kissing her forehead gently.

Its okay baby, Im here Bette soothed.

Thank you Tina managed between sobs.

They sat there for a while, Bette holding Tina as she clung to her. They needed each other, it was an unspoken fact that both of them acknowledged.

Bette? Tina looked up.

Yes T?

Can I stay with you tonight?

A huge smile spread across Bettes face as she felt the tears welling in her eyes. She stroked Tinas cheek tenderly.

You can stay with me whenever and wherever you want. Id stay with you anywhere

Do you really mean that?

T, if you wanted to run away and live on the streets, Id get my cardboard box and sleep right next to you. I just want to be with you

Tina reached up and pulled Bette down for another kiss.

Take me to bed Tina whispered.

You dont have to ask me twice Bette grinned and helped Tina to her feet.

They walked hand in hand to Bettes bedroom. Bette sensed Tina starting to falter as they reached the door.

We dont have to do this you know. I can sleep on the couch Bette said softly.

I just want you to hold me. Can you do that?

Bette took Tinas hand and kissed it I want to hold you forever

Then do Tina pushed open the door.

Bette walked to the bed and pulled back the covers. She slipped off her trousers and climbed in.

Are you joining me? You can keep all your clothes on, I just feel more comfortable this way

Its okay Tina whispered.

Tinas hands shook slightly as she unbuttoned her jacket and dropped it to the floor. She paused slightly before sliding off her trousers and joining Bette in the bed.

Hold me she breathed.

Bette pulled her close and wrapped her body round her. Tina held her breath as the bare skin of their legs touched. They kissed softly before Tina lay her head on Bettes chest.

I could stay this way forever Bette whispered as she ran her hand up and down Tinas spine.

I love listening to your heartbeat Tina replied as she stroked Bettes collarbone.

Its beating for you

Tina leant up and kissed Bette on the lips.

Goodnight baby

Goodnight T

They fell asleep that way, their bodies wrapped closely together.

In the morning Bette woke and smiled when she remembered the events of the night. Could it be that the unshakeable Bette Porter had fallen in love? She reached out for Tina and her heart skipped a beat when all she felt was empty sheets.